(1860) Token Baker-544A, Miller Pa-211 Copper William Idler

Coin Details

Description

This copper token, cataloged as Baker-544A and Miller Pa-211, was produced circa 1860 by William Idler, a prominent Philadelphia numismatist, coin dealer, and die-sinker. Idler operated from his shop on North Ninth Street in Philadelphia and was one of the most active producers of store cards, tokens, and medalets during the late 1850s and 1860s. His Washington-themed pieces are among the most numerous in the antebellum token series, reflecting both his commercial interests and his genuine enthusiasm for numismatics. This copper token features a Washington portrait on the obverse with Idler's business information or advertising on the reverse, combining patriotic imagery with commercial promotion in the tradition of the era's store card tokens. The Miller Pa-211 designation refers to the standard reference for Pennsylvania merchant tokens compiled by Donald Miller. Idler's tokens were produced in various metals and die combinations, and assembling a complete set of Idler varieties is a significant challenge for specialists. His pieces represent the intersection of numismatic commerce and Washington commemoration that characterized Philadelphia's vibrant collecting community in the years before the Civil War.

Rarity Notes

Moderately scarce. Idler tokens exist in multiple varieties and metals. This copper Baker-544A variety appears with some regularity but is not common.

Cross References

Baker-544A; Miller Pa-211; Musante GW-229; PCGS #626623